The immigration issue is not only a hot topic but one that has divided our country. A new report from Pew Research has provided me with some insight into the problem and why it has become such a divisive issue. Like so many other issue, past and present, the problem appears to be rooted in misinformation. The generational divide, so common when it comes to issues also seems to apply here. In this case Millennials, at least those ages 18-29, seem to have a better understanding of the issue. I want to address two of the aspects.
One of the realities is that a majority of immigrants are in the country legally. Young adults seem to be much more informed on this issue. Fifty-eight percent (58%) of those ages 18-29 who were polled responded yes to the statement “most immigrants are in the U.S. legally. Only 4% responded that “they did not know.” Among those over the age of 65 only 35% were aware that most immigrants are here legally. A surprising 20% responded that “they did not know.”
The other issue is the impact that immigrants have on the U.S. labor market. Overall, 71% of those polled agreed that “immigrants most filled jobs that U.S. citizens do not want.” Again there was a disparity across generations. Eighty percent (80%) of those 18-29 held that opinion, compared to 68% of those over the age of 65.
Millennials and members of Generation Z (those born after 2000) have grown up in a much more diverse world. If they have gone to a public high school or university they have gotten to know individuals from different cultures and ethnic groups. This has not only caused them to be more tolerant toward immigrants but also more accepting when it comes to the positive impact they can have on our country. This might be one issue where we can learn from them.
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